Upon its introduction in the U.S., the 2007 Mercedes-Benz S-Class will be offered as either a S500 or S600, both with an extended wheelbase for extra rear seat room.

The S500 model will feature a 382-horsepower, 32-valve V8 engine with variable valve timing. S600 models will feature a twelve-cylinder engine that promises more than 500 horsepower. In comparison, the 2005 S-Class S500 offers 302 horsepower and the 2005 S600 pumps out 493 horsepower.

A seven-speed automatic transmission manages the power generated by the improved engines, sending it to the rear or all four wheels. On the 2007 Mercedes-Benz S-Class the shifter is a small lever on the steering column; move the lever up for reverse, down for drive, and push a button on the end of the lever for park. Small buttons on the back of the steering wheel allow for manual shift control while driving.

Thankfully, and this decision is likely to pay dividends for Mercedes, the 2007 S-Class is not equipped with fussy drive-by-wire systems for the steering and the brakes. Good ‘ol hydraulic fluid handles steering assist and brake application, which should translate to excellent road feel and response. Expect the new S-Class to ride on an updated version of the Mercedes Airmatic suspension, complete with software designed to counteract body roll in turns.